DC's Absolute Universe: A Chronological Reading Guide

DC's All In publishing initiative offers a unique opportunity for top-tier creators to explore the iconic heroes of the DC universe without the limitations of established continuity. Spearheaded by industry giants Scott Snyder and Joshua Williamson, the initiative includes the Absolute Universe, a groundbreaking arc that follows the Absolute Power storyline from late 2024. This ongoing saga reimagines the status quo for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, delivering fresh and unexpected narratives for fans familiar with these legendary characters.

Since its launch in October, the Absolute Universe has captivated readers with its multiple ongoing series. However, keeping up with the intricate plotlines and release schedules can be challenging. To help you navigate this exciting new universe, we've compiled a detailed reading order and chronology for DC's Absolute Universe in 2025.

Note: It's important not to confuse the Absolute Universe titles with DC's "Absolute" collected editions, such as the new Absolute Batman: Zero Year. These are entirely separate entities!

The Reading Order

For the best experience, start with our recommended reading order, then follow the subsequent issues in release order. Each main Absolute series will consist of a six-issue run, eventually collected into trade paperback editions.

1. DC All In Special #1 by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Wes Craig, and Daniel Sampere

### DC All In Special #1

0See it at AmazonThis oversized one-shot, crafted by the visionary Scott Snyder, lays the groundwork for the Absolute Universe. It's essential to start here before diving into Absolute Batman.

2. Absolute Batman #1 by Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta

### Absolute Batman #1

1See it at AmazonLaunched in October 2024, Absolute Batman #1 marks the true beginning of the Absolute Universe. It presents a gritty, reimagined Dark Knight where Bruce Wayne lacks wealth, a high-tech Batcave, and the stabilizing presence of Alfred.

3. Absolute Wonder Woman #1 by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman

### Absolute Wonder Woman #1

0See it at AmazonReleased shortly after Absolute Batman #1 at the end of October, this issue reimagines Wonder Woman, transforming Greek mythology into a narrative where Diana is a fierce, heavily armed Amazon warrior seeking her purpose.

4. Absolute Superman #1 by Jason Aaron and Rafa Sandoval

### Absolute Superman #1

0See it at AmazonWritten by the acclaimed Jason Aaron, known for Southern Bastards and Thor, Absolute Superman explores the Man of Steel's origins from humble beginnings, making him more relatable than ever.

5. Absolute Flash #1 by Jeff Lemire and Nick Robles

### Absolute Flash #1

0See it at AmazonKicking off the second wave in 2025, Absolute Flash reintroduces Wally West in a world where he must master the nuances of speed without the support of the Flash family or the Speed Force.

6. Absolute Martian Manhunter #1 by Deniz Camp and Javier Rodriguez

### Absolute Martian Manhunter #1

0See it at AmazonThe second title in the 2025 wave, this series significantly deviates from the original character. It follows FBI agent John Jones, whose body and mind are being overtaken by a Martian, pulling him into a vast and unforeseen conflict.

7. Absolute Green Lantern #1 by Al Ewing and Jahnoy Lindsay

### Absolute Green Lantern #1

0See it at AmazonThis unique take on the Green Lantern mythos involves four individuals—Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and Jo Mullein—who must deal with the aftermath of a large Green Lantern crash-landing in a small town.

Upcoming Collected Editions

Currently, only the first three Absolute titles have confirmed release dates for their collected editions:

• Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo - August 5
• Absolute Wonder Woman Vol. 1: The Last Amazon - August 12
• Absolute Superman Vol. 1: The Last Dust of Krypton - August 19

While this is the current scope of the Absolute Universe, we anticipate that these stories may lead to a grand finale or event by the end of 2025 or later, potentially expanding to include more heroes in the Absolute treatment.